In the depths of the Galápagos, a realm teeming with mystery and marine marvels, scientists have made groundbreaking discoveries. Off the iconic islands, two pristine cold-water coral reefs, stretching 800 meters and 250 meters respectively, were unveiled. These reefs, thriving at depths between 370 to 420 meters, are biodiversity hotspots, likely nurturing marine life for millennia. This revelation, made possible by the Schmidt Ocean Institute’s ROV SuBastian, marks a significant expansion in our understanding of the Galápagos Islands Marine Reserve’s deep reefs​​. The expedition, which started on September 18, 2023, was led by Dr. Katleen Robert and included 24 scientists … Continue reading Galápagos Expedition Unearths Vast Deep-Sea Coral Ecosystems and Hydrothermal Vents